Using Body Oriented Interventions for Impulse Control in Individuals Struggling with Addiction: A Literature Review

Author

Cheryl Cavey, Lesley UniversityFollow

Date of Award

Spring 5-18-2019

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

MA - Master of Arts

Department

Expressive Therapies

Advisor

Vivian Marcow Speiser

Abstract

This paper is a literature review that explores the literature on addiction, impulsivity and dance/movement therapy (DMT), culminating in a discussion on combining the research to inform a new direction in treating Substance Use Disorders (SUD). Exploring an understanding of addiction paired with what is understood about the reality of impulsivity, it is suggested that a DMT approach can be used to create a deeper personal understanding of the self. By focusing on sensations and recognizing established patterns, those in treatment can begin to respond instead of react to the urges and cravings that inform impulsive behaviors. This paper examines how this approach could be beneficial in treatment and why it is necessary to do more research in all areas of addiction, impulsivity, and the use of DMT as an effective intervention.

Creative Commons License

This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution 4.0 License.

Recommended Citation

Cavey, Cheryl, "Using Body Oriented Interventions for Impulse Control in Individuals Struggling with Addiction: A Literature Review" (2019). Expressive Therapies Capstone Theses. 177.
https://digitalcommons.lesley.edu/expressive_theses/177